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Evidence checklist

Total Elbow Replacement (Arthroplasty)

DC 505238 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Nexus opinion linking total elbow replacement to service-connected condition ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting the underlying condition requiring elbow replacement to military service. The replacement itself is rated at 100% for one year post-surgery, then on residual ROM and symptoms.

Private provider · independent opinion
Post-operative elbow and forearm range of motion measurementsCritical

Current orthopedic examination documenting elbow flexion, extension, forearm supination, and pronation after the minimum 1-year 100% rating period expires, as the ongoing rating is based on residual motion limitation.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treating physician

0 of 1 collected
Functional assessment (lifting capacity, reach, assistive devices)

Records documenting maximum lifting capacity (total elbow replacements have strict 1-5 lb lifting restrictions), ability to perform overhead activities, and any assistive device use.

Your treating provider · written request
03

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
Surgical records from total elbow replacementCritical

Operative reports from total elbow arthroplasty documenting the reason for surgery (post-traumatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, comminuted fracture), implant type (linked vs. unlinked), and intraoperative findings.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of dominant vs. non-dominant armCritical

Medical records specifying which elbow was replaced and which arm is dominant. The major extremity receives a higher rating.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of post-operative complications or chronic symptoms

Records of component loosening, periprosthetic fracture, infection, ulnar nerve irritation, triceps insufficiency, instability, revision surgery, or persistent functional limitations.

VA or private records · written request
04

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
05

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Elbow and Forearm ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing elbow and forearm range of motion, post-surgical status, lifting restrictions, and functional limitations after total elbow replacement.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
06

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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